The paint supplied by AkzoNobel will ensure aesthetics and durability of the COMAC C919 aircraft of China Southern Airlines.
The international paint and coatings manufacturer AkzoNobel, through its Aerospace Coatings division, has successfully coated the first C919 of China Southern Airlines.
AkzoNobel used around 500 litres of aerospace coatings for the aircraft's engine, wings and tail, with eight colours to reproduce the classic China Southern Airlines livery. AkzoNobel technicians provided dedicated on-site support during the nine-day painting process, ensuring that every detail of the aircraft was meticulously crafted to embody precision and excellence.
- The aircraft features the COMAC identifier C919 on the fuselage.
- The ‘C’ represents the initials of COMAC and China. The first ‘9’ symbolises longevity, while the ‘19’ reflects the aircraft's maximum capacity of 190 passengers.
- The tail wing shows the classic China Southern Airlines blue, together with the cotton flower motif.
Thanks to its aerodynamic design, advanced engines and materials, this C919 will enhance the passenger experience and feature reduced carbon emissions and improved fuel efficiency.
AkzoNobel's Basecoat Clearcoat
(BCCC) extends the durability of the aircraft's paint and reduces the frequency of maintenance during its life cycle. Compared to traditional coatings, BCCC's is lighter and improves coverage with fewer coats, helping to reduce overall aircraft weight and fuel operating costs. In addition, the need to use less paint and the absence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) help support a more sustainable aviation industry.
Finally, as China Southern Airlines' first C919 prepares to enter service, AkzoNobel's aerospace coatings manufacturing base in Dongguan is actively preparing for certification by COMAC and expects to supply coatings for future C919s by the end of the year. AkzoNobel congratulates the Chinese aviation industry on reaching this new milestone and looks forward to contributing to the growth of the industry by actively providing high quality products and services.